How to Write an Essay for the Captain Bobby C. Kersey Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. Consider how your upbringing, education, and significant life events have shaped who you are today. What experiences have influenced your decision to pursue higher education?
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics where possible—such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours—to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that further study will provide. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will help bridge the gap between your current situation and your future goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your character. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Aim for a clear structure that flows logically:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section has a clear takeaway. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and the challenges you’ve overcome.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your growth and articulate your commitment to making a difference in your community through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your role in each experience. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, aim for specificity and clarity. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, and transitions should guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself: What insights have I gained? Why does this matter? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating your growth and future potential.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Using clichés or vague language without supporting details.
• Failing to connect your experiences to your future goals.
• Neglecting to proofread for grammar and clarity.

By avoiding these pitfalls and following the outlined steps, you can create a compelling essay that stands out to the selection committee.